ceiling from darkness in the room matches the feeling I have within me for what I must do. Neima's peacefully pleasant expression as she sleeps makes it all the harder. Joy that had been there was going away because of the thoughts of secrets had started their stirring once again. Slowly, I move the blankets aside and swing my legs over the edge of the bed. Neima doesn't stir, but a change in the cadence of her breath and then back again to the earlier rhythym makes my heart skip a beat for a second. Quietly, I dress and make my way to the door where I carefully open it, trying to avoid a squeak in the hinges. Successfully done, I leave the room without taking my eyes off of Neima, all the while aware of the conflicting thoughts racing around in my brain. I know I'm doing the right thing, but it does nothing to ease the guilt I feel, also. With the door closed after gradually bringing it to its well worn frame, I proceed heavily down the stairs. The place is empty. I guess everybody has gone home for the night. There is a single candle to light the way along with the glowing embers from the fire. My harp has been waiting patiently for me, but seems saddened when it goes back into its case. Walking towards the door, I pass a pie dish with what may have been a blueberry pie, bringing bittersweet thoughts to add those already filling my mind.

Opening the door, I see that it is snowing, but the ground is still damp from earlier warmer temperatures. Footprints are left in the mud as I walk away from the Tavern, but will soon be filled in by the snow coming down. The silhouette of the tavern fades into the darkness....